Vehicle protector

ABSTRACT

A compact, foldable, transportable vehicle protector for parked vehicles. Panels are connected, side-by-side, by alternating folding lines or hinges to form a structure capable of standing freely in any position around the vehicle. The folding lines or hinges further allow the panels to fold onto each other, forming a vehicle protector that is compact, stowable and transportable. When the device is positioned around the vehicle, it protects the vehicle from dents, scratches and other damage occurring from what many consider minor bumps.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to methods and devices forprotecting a parked vehicle from dents, scratches and other damageoccurring from contact with other objects. Parked vehicles can bedamaged outside a garage by runaway shopping carts, foul balls,pedestrians, other car doors, etc. Parked vehicles can also be damagedin a garage by falling bicycles and other garage items, the opening ofadjacent car doors, etc. The present invention discloses a device toprotect the body of a vehicle by being positioned around a parkedvehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Several attempts have been made in the past to provide devicesfor protecting automobiles from damage. However, the devices currentlyavailable tend to focus on protecting only the side door area ofautomobiles. Furthermore, the devices currently available have severaldisadvantages that are overcome by the design and construction of thepresent invention. Specifically, they lack the capacity to protect thewhole vehicle, or specific areas, from damage. Also, the devicespresently available are not mutable or freestanding. Rather, suchdevices protect only vehicle doors by, for example, either attaching tothe vehicle or being suspended from above.

[0003] Referring first to FIGS. 1a and 1 b, depicted is a vehicle sidedoor protector according to Marks U.S. Pat. No. 6,062,617 (“Marks”). Inparticular, FIGS. 1a and 1 b depict a protector for side doors of parkedvehicles wherein the protector attaches to and is removable from theautomobile. Marks discloses a foldable protector device as shown in FIG.1b. The Marks' protector comprises a plurality of rectangular panels 11arranged in a side-by-side relationship as shown in the unfoldedposition in FIG. 1a. Panels 11 are held together by hinges 12, whichalso lock the panels in the device's open position. Marks also disclosesa binder 13 which serves as a backing when panels are in the foldedposition (i.e., in a book like position) and as the mechanism to attachthe protector to the vehicle. This design suffers from manydisadvantages. First, the design limits the Marks device to protectingonly the side door area of the vehicle. Therefore, even attaching twoMarks devices to a vehicle leaves most of the vehicle unprotected.Second, the Marks device is specifically designed to attach to anautomobile. Thus, if dust, dirt or other impurities are on the devise,the vehicle's finish could be scratched or otherwise damaged when thedevice is attached to the vehicle. Finally, the Marks device disclosespanels that only fold in one direction (see FIG. 1b). This feature doesnot provide enough support to use the device as a freestandingmechanism. The device disclosed in Marks does not allow for afreestanding unit nor does it enable protection for the entire vehicle.

[0004] Another type of vehicle protector is disclosed in Barnett U.S.Pat. Nos. 4,750,767 (“Barnett”). Barnett, like Marks, discloses anattachment device for guarding one side of an automobile. Referring nowto FIG. 2, shown is the Barnett device attached to one side ofautomobile 21. Protective pad 10 has a forwardly extending pad 22,center pad 23 and rearwardly extending pad 24. Pads 22, 23 and 24 areheld by downwardly extending support band 15 which is secured at the topof automobile door 27. This design has several disadvantages as well.First, the Barnett design must be attached to the automobile. Thiscreates problems when attempting to protect automobiles or vehicles ofdifferent sizes and shapes. Also, even if attached correctly, theBarnett device leaves much of a vehicle unprotected. In addition, ifdust, dirt or other impurities are on the device, the vehicle's finishcould be scratched or otherwise damaged when the device is attached tothe vehicle. Accordingly, a need exists for a device which can protectvehicles of different sizes and shapes, which need not be attached tothe vehicle, and which offers protection to the entire vehicle.

[0005] Further, U.S. Pat. No. 6,240,681 to Lyles et al. (“Lyles”) andU.S. Pat. No. 6,112,478 to Piper (“Piper”) disclose suspended vehicleprotectors. These suspension device are encumbered by lack of mobilityand the inability to protect the vehicle from danger outside the garage,as well as certain dangers inside the garage. That is, things such asfalling garage items like bicycles and toys still present a threat tothe vehicle when suspension devices are used. Lyles and Piper arefurther disadvantaged because they are not foldable, compact nortransportable. Therefore, a need exists for a device that is foldable,compact, transportable, easy to erect, and is not suspended or attachedto a vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention describes an apparatus that enables aperson to easily, quickly and strategically protect any vehicle fromdamage while parked in any area. The apparatus is constructed of panelswhich can be alternately folded onto each other for easy storage. Inthis way, the apparatus may be easily transported within the vehicle toany parking location. Upon arrival at a parking location, a person mayquickly and easily unfold the vehicle protector to an adequate lengthand contour to protect all vulnerable areas of the vehicle.

[0007] An important aspect of the present invention is the way thedevice folds in alternate directions for two specific purposes. First,by folding in alternate directions, the present invention may be easilystored and transported. Second, the apparatus may be positioned to standindependently on any surface and its contour may be changed to maximizestability, as well as body area coverage of the vehicle.

[0008] The present invention discloses a device with varying length andcontour. The present device is lightweight, fast and easy to erect orposition, easy to remove and store, and stands with no external supportalong a vehicle. The present device requires little storage spacebecause it is foldable.

[0009] Further, the present device is freestanding and is not requiredto make contact with the vehicle it is protecting, thereby eliminatingany possibility that dirt or dust could be caught between the device andvehicle, scratching the vehicle's finish.

[0010] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide alightweight, inexpensive, and transportable vehicle protector for usewith any vehicle, regardless of the vehicle's size or shape.

[0011] It is another object of the present invention to provide avehicle protector that can be easily manufactured at low cost.

[0012] Still another object of the present invention is to provide anovel vehicle protector for preventing damage from numerous objectswhich may come into contact with the vehicle.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide avehicle protector capable of protecting the entire vehicle from objectswhich may come into contact with it.

[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide avehicle protector with optional legs or feet for further stability.

[0015] Other objects, features, and characteristics of the presentinvention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of therelated elements of the structure, and the combination of parts andeconomies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon considerationof the following detailed description with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, all of which form a part of this specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] A further understanding of the present invention can be obtainedby reference to a preferred embodiment set forth in the illustrations ofthe accompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiment is merelyexemplary of systems for carrying out the present invention, both theorganization and method of operation of the invention, in general,together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be moreeasily understood by reference to the drawings and the followingdescription. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of thisinvention, which is set forth with particularity in the claims asappended or as subsequently amended, but merely to clarify and exemplifythe invention.

[0017] For a more complete understanding of the present invention,reference is now made to the following drawings in which:

[0018]FIG. 1a shows a side view of a prior art vehicle side doorprotector according to Marks U.S. Pat. No. 6,062,617, shown in a lockedand extended condition.

[0019]FIG. 1b shows a perspective view of the prior art vehicleprotector of FIG. 1a in a partially folded position.

[0020]FIG. 2 shows a side view of an automobile protected by a prior artvehicle protector according to Barnett U.S. Pat. No. 4,750,767.

[0021]FIG. 3 shows a side view of the preferred embodiment of thevehicle protector according to the present invention as positioned toprotect a vehicle.

[0022]FIG. 4 shows the vehicle protector of FIG. 3 in a completelyfolded state.

[0023]FIG. 5a shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of thevehicle protector according to the present invention comprisingaccordion-like panels.

[0024]FIG. 5b shows a top view of the alternate embodiment shown in FIG.5a.

[0025]FIG. 6a shows a side view of yet another alternate embodiment of asingle panel of the vehicle protector of FIG. 3 having folding supports.

[0026]FIG. 6b shows an end view of the panel of the alternativeembodiment shown in FIG. 6a.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the presentinvention is disclosed herein. However, techniques, systems andoperating structures in accordance with the present invention may beembodied in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may bequite different from those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently,the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein aremerely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford thebest embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis forthe claims herein which define the scope of the present invention. Thefollowing presents a detailed description of a preferred embodiment (aswell as some alternative embodiments) of the present invention.

[0028] Referring first to FIGS. 3-6 generally, the present invention,referred to as reference number 35, is a foldable, free-standing,transportable vehicle protector 35 preferably comprising a series ofconnected side-by-side panels 31, constructed of any material suitableto absorb impact to the vehicle. The panels 31 are preferably connectedat folding lines 32 which alternate in folding direction. The vehicleprotector 35, when folded, forms a compact, lightweight, transportableand stowable device.

[0029] The device according to the present invention is best viewed inFIG. 3, which discloses a basic, average-sized foldable, freestanding,transportable protector for multiple sides of a vehicle. Also, FIG. 4,depicts the vehicle protector of FIG. 3 in its completely folded,compact form for easy stowing and transportation. FIGS. 5a and 5 b showan alternate embodiment of the vehicle protector comprisingaccordion-like panels that, when folded, provide an even more compactstructure than the embodiment shown in FIG. 4. Finally, FIGS. 6a and 6 bshow yet another alternate embodiment of the invention with addedsupports, such as folding legs or feet.

[0030] Referring first to FIG. 3, shown is a side view of the preferredembodiment of the present invention. Vehicle protector 35 is positionedto protect three of the four sides of vehicle 34. Alternatively, vehicleprotector 35 may be positioned to protect one, two, or all of the sidesof vehicle 34. Vehicle protector 35 comprises panels 31 connected atfolding lines 32. The number of panels 31 may vary to allow forprotection of vehicles of different shapes and sizes. For example, toprotect the entire vehicle 34, approximately twenty or more panels 31may be required.

[0031] Each panel 31 is preferably square or rectangular in shape andconnected in a side-by-side position as shown in FIG. 3 so that it isfoldable onto itself by hinges or any other flexible means. Also, theheight of each panel 31 is preferably about the height of the hoodand/or trunk of the vehicle to be protected. Consequently, taller panels31 will be desired for larger vehicles. The length of each panel 31 ispreferably a few inches shorter than the height of each panel 31.However, the preferred length of each panel 31 will be the length whichmaximizes support for the structure in its free-standing mode. Thethickness of each panel 31 will generally be very thin to minimize theoverall weight of vehicle protector 35 while still retaining enoughthickness to maximize protection against dents, scratches and bumps. Thepreferred thickness of panels 31 is approximately ¼″.

[0032] Still, panels 31 may be constructed of any lightweight andinexpensive material suitable to absorb impact to the vehicle, includingbut not limited to various light, porous, semi-rigid or spongymaterials.

[0033] Vehicle protector 35 is shown standing independently in itsprotective position, self supported due to slight, alternate folds atfolding lines 32. Alternately, folding lines 32 may be hinges or anotherconnection means which would allow the folding of panels 31 in alternatedirections. Folding lines 32 allow side panels 31 to fold and unfold, aswell as to change the angle and positioning of each panel to achievedesired standing ability and maximum vehicle protection. Importantly,the folding direction alternates at each successive connection of eachpanel 31. The slight, alternate folds provide support from naturaloccurrences (e.g., wind) that may compromise the device's ability toremain standing. The present invention allows a user to determine thestrength of vehicle protector 35. For instance, if there exists a needfor greater support on any particular day or in any particularsituation, the user may shorten the length of vehicle protector 35 byincreasing the angle of the alternate folds along folding line 32. Thiswill maximize the support given at the contact points of opposingfolding lines 32.

[0034] Referring next to FIG. 4, shown is the preferred embodimentinvention in a folded state. Panels 31 fold on top of each other inalternate direction at folding lines 32. Latch 33 may be attached at thecenter edge of either of the four sides of panel 31 to secure vehicleprotector 35 in its folded state. The present invention can utilize anylatching means. FIG. 4 shows a button hook apparatus. This apparatusincorporates buttons 36 located at the center edge of the top and bottomsides of the two end panels 31. To secure folded vehicle protector 35,latch 33 is connected to opposing buttons 36, thereby locking vehicleprotector 35. This results in an extremely compact, stowable and thustransportable protector.

[0035] Referring now to FIGS. 5a and 5 b, shown are alternate embodimentpanels 50 that comprise the present invention. That is, panels 50 may beconstructed as an accordion-like structure. Such a construction permitsthe present invention, in its folded state, to be more compact, stowableand transportable. Furthermore, the accordion-like panels 50 are able toabsorb plenty of impact despite being made of thin, lightweightmaterial. When the panels are constructed like an accordion, foldinglines are not desired to connect each panel 50. Instead, the followingtwo embodiments may be used but are mentioned as alternatives not to bedeemed exclusive.

[0036] First, referring specifically to FIG. 5a, the present inventioncan be one long panel 50 that wraps around the vehicle and connects toitself. Although any attachment means may be used, shown is latch 53, abutton hook apparatus. Preferably, latch 53 incorporates buttons 52located at the center side edge of both stable end pieces 51. To securelong panel 50 to itself, latch 53 is connected to opposing buttons 52,thereby locking the present invention. This results in the presentinvention protecting the entire vehicle and supporting itself againstthe vehicle, fitting like a glove.

[0037] Second, referring now to FIG. 5b, several panels 50 may beemployed and connected by hinges 55, preferably at a stable end piece51. The embodiment depicted in FIG. 5b will utilize hinges 55 placed onalternating sides of stable end piece 51 to achieve an alternativefolding structure consistent with the present invention. Thus, not onlywill each panel 50 fold onto another panel 50, but each panel 50 willfold onto itself, like an accordion.

[0038] Referring finally to FIGS. 6a and 6 b, shown is an alternativeembodiment of the present invention. In this alternative embodiment,panels 60 may be constructed with supports 61. This embodiment permitsadded support for standing the present invention because when supports61 are in an extended horizontal position, supports 61 provideadditional opposing ground contact points to stabilize panels 60. FIG.6a is a side view of panel 60. Support 61 will lock in its extended,horizontal position when adding support to panel 60 and lock in itsfolded, vertical position when the present invention is in its foldedstate. FIG. 6b is an end view of panel 60 and support 61.

[0039] Finally, the use of the present invention is hereinafterdescribed in reference to FIG. 3, which is the disclosed preferredembodiment. To use the foldable, free-standing, transportable vehicleprotector 35, it is first removed from its stowed position in its foldedstate (described above with reference to FIG. 4). Next, the vehicleprotector 35 is placed in its desired position around the vulnerableareas of the vehicle 34 by expanding the vehicle protector 35 andforming it to withstand the elements and, thereby, remain standing. Whenany object compromises the safety of vehicle 34 from dents, scratchesand other damage occurring from what many consider minor bumps, andstrikes one or more panels 31, the device of the present invention willabsorb the impact and protect the vehicle body.

[0040] Before moving vehicle 34 from its parking space, the vehicleprotector 35 is folded and stowed in vehicle 34, the corner of a garage,or any number of other places due to the compact structure of thepresent invention.

[0041] While the present invention has been described with reference toone or more preferred embodiments, such embodiments are merely exemplaryand are not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustiveenumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention,therefore, shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, itwill be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes maybe made in such details without departing from the spirit and theprinciples of the invention. It should be appreciated that the presentinvention is capable of being embodied in other forms without departingfrom its essential characteristics.

What is claimed:
 1. An apparatus for protecting a vehicle, saidapparatus comprising: a plurality of adjacent panels, each of saidpanels connected to at least one other said adjacent panels by at leastone hinge means; wherein said hinge means are such that the folddirection of each successive said panel is alternately folded.
 2. Anapparatus according to claim 1, wherein said panels consist of impactresistant material.
 3. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein saidpanels consist of soft pliable material.
 4. An apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein said panels each contain foldable supports.
 5. Anapparatus according to claim 4, wherein said supports lock in a foldedposition.
 6. An apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said supportslock in an extended position.
 7. An apparatus according to claim 1,wherein said panels are constructed like an accordion.